Jones in contention at PNG world longboard championships

SURFING: Nic Jones has forged into the middle stages of the the World Surf League Kumul PNG World Longboard Championships at Tupira.

The Buderim talent overcame highly-rated compatriot Jack Entwhistle 13.90 to 13.03 in round two of the new event, which starts a multi-event world Longboard Tour.

"It was a little rough to pull Jack on the draw," Jones said in an event press release.

"I've never surfed a man-on-man heat with him so it was a bit nerve-wracking knowing how well he surfs.

"There were heaps of waves coming through. I was just trying to blow through some (of the lips) out there but as soon as you get out of flow it's such a short wave that you just have to stay in the pocket the whole time.

"I was trying to keep my speed up and get those nose rides, and just try to link it all together."

Jones will next collide with Brazilian Rodrigo Sphaier.

Fellow Sunshine Coaster Kathryn Hughes is due to collide with Australian Nava Young in round two of the women's section.